Allen & Overy takes flexible approach

Law firm Allen & Overy (A&O) has launched a flexible working business.

Peerpoint will build a panel of high calibre lawyers who have previously worked for A&O. The ‘magic circle’ firm is looking for a base of 20-30 alumni who are now self-employed and can augment its workforce at peak times.

A&O said Peerpoint will enable it to scale up when necessary, while giving some lawyers greater choice over when, where and how they work.

Global managing partner Wim Dejonghe said Peerpoint is a response to the pressure being placed on the traditional law firm model, which lacks flexibility.

“In a low growth environment, peaks in client demand are far more variable, so we need greater flexibility in our model. We also want to provide an option for those high-calibre lawyers who enjoy the challenge of working with top tier clients without the added demands of working in a large law firm. Peerpoint enables us to do both,” he said.

Over time, A&O said it will expand its recruitment to cover lawyers from other firms. Initially the launch will focus on London before expanding internationally to other A&O offices.

Once Peerpoint reaches “critical mass” in the next 12 months, it will also start to offer lawyers for temporary placements or specific projects for clients.